STAR cross-country athlete Thabo Viti is off to the USA to further his studies thanks to a big-hearted Albertonian.
Two weeks after publishing the 20-year-old’s story, the RECORD received a call from a good Samaritan who donated R60 000 which will ensure that Thabo’s international student tuition deposit and application fees are paid off.
Thabo managed to raise some funds for his flight tickets and visa through social media platforms but was struggling to get the rest of the funds together.
Now, after this generous sponsorship, Thabo is set to leave for the USA and will fly out on August 11.
The donation was a breakthrough to his hardworking single mother of two, who had to get three jobs to try to cover Thabo’s expenses.
This was almost impossible for a single mother who works as a domestic worker and relies on her salary for household costs.
Life-changing moment
Earlier this year, Thabo received a scholarship of $14 000 (R195 972) to further his studies in the USA at William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, thanks to his great running ability.
“Keep moving forward” is the motto that keeps Thabo going and he is best described by those closest to him as a hardworking and dedicated athlete.
Thabo extended his gratitude to his sponsor and said he plans to give back to his community, given he makes it as a big athlete one day.
“I feel lucky to have people supporting me to be able to achieve my dreams. It’s been a lot of hard work and it’s wonderful to see people believing in me.
“I am truly grateful for the help I received from the community. After my story was published in the RECORD, there were a number of people who contacted, wanting to help. I also hope to make someone’s dream come true one day,” he said.
Thabo’s mother, Brenda Viti, thanked the sponsor that came to her son’s rescue.
“I wish I could personally meet the person who helped make my son’s dreams come true. I was beginning to lose hope as days of his departure got closer. I thank God for the sponsor’s selfless deeds and I ask that they may continue to help others in need,” said Brenda.
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